Iran 2013-2014: Now with Top 90 best-selling imports!

* NOW UPDATED with the Top 90 imported models, Top 25 imported brands and an exclusive estimated Top 30 models including the local production. Thanks Behta and Sandeep *

Thanks to a tip from two BSCB readers, I can share with you for the first time ever the most popular imported brands and models in Iran. Traditionally Iranian data only includes the models produced locally so this gives us a great additional insight into this market. Over the Full Year 1392 in the Persian calendar (April 2013-March 2014), 77,860 new cars were imported in Iran, compared to an estimated 590,000 locally produced, a 12% import rate. Two words for you: Korean and Emgrand.

The Hyundai ix35 is the most successful import in Iran.

Brand-wise, Hyundai and Kia put together account for 6 in every 10 cars imported into Iran last year, 41.8% share for Hyundai and 18.4% for Kia! The surprise comes in third place: Chinese Geely imported 9,222 cars for a fantastic 11.8% market share, ahead of Toyota at 9.2% and 7,184 units! BMW is extremely successful in Iran, holding a 5% share of all imports vs. 1.8% for Mercedes. Notice also MG in 7th place, SsangYong at #10, Great Wall at #12, Lexus at #13 and Chinese BAIC (100 units) and Zotye (5) also making an appearance.

The Kia Optima comes in at #7 import

In the models ranking, the Hyundai ix35 leads the imports sales charts with 10,527 sales which would earn it a 9th place overall including the locally-produced models. The Geely Emgrand 7 shines in 2nd imported ranking thanks to 8,360 units, meaning a secured Top 10 spot overall country-wide which is a great achievement for the Chinese carmaker. The Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Elantra follow.

Full Year 1392 Top 25 imported brands, Top 90 imported models and Top 30 all models below.